Carhartt

More than a century ago,
Carhartt revolutionized the construction of premium workwear with the
toughest materials available: denim and brown duck fabric. Today
Carhartt brings its rugged-as-all-outdoors construction to everything
from moisture-wicking T-shirts and arctic-quality outerwear, to socks
and hats. As new generations keep discovering this legendary brand,
Carhartt continues setting the standard for comfort and durability both
on and off the job.

Hamilton
Carhartt was born in 1855 in Macedon Lock, New York. He grew up in
Southern Michigan and his entrepreneurial style was reflected in the
modifying of his last name by adding an extra "t" to ensure he would
stand out from other businessmen. He initially established a furnishing
business which would continue to drive his ambition to succeed and lead
him to create his own products.

With
some helpful advice from his first potential buyer, he realized his
products had to be different. After talking with a railroad engineer,
he created an overall garment specifically for the railroad worker which
had never been made before. Hamilton Carhartt founded his namesake
company in 1889 and began making work wear with a single goal in mind:
Set a standard of excellence to which all others would aspire. Starting
with only 4 sewing machines and about 5 employees, the first products
manufactured were overalls in duck and denim fabrics. By traveling from
town to town and visiting each railroad division, he was able to
establish himself in the overall business. With entrepreneurial vision
and determination, Hamilton Carhartt established a brand that has stood
the test of time.

The Great Depression had a devastating effect on Carhartt
resulting in only three plants remaining in the U.S. after 1930.
Hamilton and his son Wylie established the "Back to the Land" campaign
leading to the joint opening of the Irvine, Kentucky operations with the
towns people of Irvine. Carhartt's Manufacturing Administrative
offices are still located in Irvine, Kentucky today.

We grew throughout the early 1900's establishing more than
17 plants and three mills throughout the United States, Canada, and
Europe. "From the mill to millions" was our motto and was reflected in
our operations which included cotton production, denim mills and apparel
manufacturing facilities. Carhartt Master Cloth was designed and woven
especially by our mills for use in Carhartt garments and was pledged to
be the best cloth that could be produced.

Hamilton Carhartt passed away in 1937 at the age of 82.
Today, his company remains a family owned operation committed to the
mission of providing Best-in-Class apparel for the active worker.

"I believe that when a man wears an article that I
manufacture, his self-respect is increased because he knows that it is
made by an honest manufacturer, who is honest with his employees" -
Hamilton Carhartt